Fixing Your Broken Braces

Posted October 23, 2017.

Your braces are going to be with you for a while. You will definitely be together for many months, and possibly over a year, depending on your course of treatment. You can help keep your braces in top-notch shape by avoiding hard or tough foods and foods that can become lodged in your braces; and by wearing a mouthguard if you are playing sports or recreating. You should brush and floss your teeth according to the dentist’s instructions. But from time to time, your braces may break. When that happens, you should contact our dentist, Dr. Dawn A. Wu at New Smile Dentistry to have them repaired. Depending on the damage, you may need to come in as soon as possible or you might be able to wait until your next appointment.

If a bracket comes loose, you can use the dental wax you received at the dentist’s office to cover it to avoid irritating your lips or cheeks . If a wire is broken or sticking out, gently push it as close to its original position as you can. Then, cover it with dental wax so it does not irritate or injure your mouth. You may want to cut the wire, but you should contact the dentist before doing so. If you cut the wire, you run the risk of swallowing or inhaling the loose piece. Your dentist will need to reattach a loose band. If it is detached from your braces, you can save it and bring with you when you see the dentist. If you lose a spacer, let the dentist know. If any problems with your braces cause issues for your mouth, cheeks or gums, you can gently rinse your mouth with a warm saltwater solution or an antiseptic. An over-the-counter pain reliever should also help with any discomfort.

If you are considering getting braces, or if you are a current patient who is coping with damage to your orthodontics, and you live in the Richardson, Texas, area, you can call (972) 231-9591 to schedule an appointment today.